Chapter 42 : “Corruption”

*Roanne’s POV*

I was alone, the silence in my apartment deafening—a stark contrast to the chaos that had unfolded earlier. The heavy knock on my door shattered my solitude. My heart leapt, but when I saw it was Michael through the peephole, relief washed over me like a warm tide.

"Michael," I breathed as I flung the door open. His presence, so assured, enveloped the room. He was privilege and protection, wrapped in tailored clothes that clung to his athletic form.

"Roanne." His voice was a velvet caress. "What’s wrong?"

Before he could finish his question, I was in his arms, clinging to him with a desperation I hadn't realized I possessed. I might not love him, but I cared so much for him, and everything that happened earlier just made me realize I couldn’t take Sebastian hurting him.